DRI Patna Nabs Two for Wildlife Trafficking

Quick summary

• Event: On September 17, 2025, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in patna apprehended two poachers involved in wildlife trafficking.
• Operation Details: The undercover operation targeted a criminal syndicate trading leopard skin adn “Hatha Jodi” (the reproductive organ of protected monitor lizards).
• Suspects: Gurunam Singh and Vicky Singh, residents of Himachal Pradesh posing as sadhus, were intercepted near baanshghat, Patna.
• Seized Items: Freshly poached leopard skin with a natural rotten odor and Hatha Jodi were recovered during the search.
• legal Frameworks Involved:

– Leopards and monitor lizards are Schedule-I species under India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, conferring maximum protection.
– Items fall under CITES Appendix-I, strictly prohibiting international trade.

• Further Action: DRI handed over suspects to Bihar Forest Department for additional proceedings. They were presented before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Patna and subsequently sent to jail.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The recent wildlife trafficking bust by DRI highlights an alarming trend impacting India’s biodiversity. Poaching endangered species like leopards and monitor lizards disrupts ecological balance while undermining conservation efforts mandated by national laws like the Wildlife Protection Act and international agreements such as CITES. The successful execution of this operation not only reflects vigilant enforcement but underlines ongoing threats from organized criminal networks exploiting India’s unique flora and fauna.This case emphasizes the importance of strengthening anti-poaching initiatives nationwide through coordinated efforts between central agencies like DRI and local forest departments. It also serves as a reminder that combating such crimes requires public awareness alongside robust legal actions to protect both environmental sustainability and national heritage.Read More